Any number of reasons can influence a person’s decision to file for divorce. Whatever the reason, spouses can reach a point when they both realize that splitting up is in their best interests.
One group that has been particularly affected by divorce over the last decade or so is military families. According to a study recently released in “Journal of Population Economics,” couples impacted by military deployment are more likely to get divorce. In fact, the chances for divorce increase with each additional month of active duty.
One of the contributors to the study pointed out that divorce among military families has been especially prevalent over the last decade. Those who enlisted in the military prior to action in Middle East may not have expected the frequency and length of deployments, which can contribute to the decision to divorce.
Although military couples take same basic legal steps to complete a divorce, property division negotiations may be a bit different than a split involving two civilians. Pension plans are often one of the most valuable assets included military divorce, so it can feed tension as couples try to reach a settlement.
From a very basic standpoint, Alabama’s equitable distribution laws are designed to help married couples exit their relationship with sense of relative financial stability. Additionally, the idea is that one spouse will not feel as through they were treated unfairly in the process. This principle can, of course, be applied to military divorces.
Couples may not be able to agree about everything as they head into divorce, but trying to set aside some differences can help lead to a mutually agreeable settlement.
Source: USA TODAY, “Study: Long, frequent deployments hurt military marriages,” Gregg Zoroya, Sept. 3, 2013
